Friday, February 20, 2015

A Favorite Mirror: the Trumeau

A classic furnishing that is undeniably French is the trumeau mirror.

Originally a large overmantel treatment of Louis XV and Louis XVI style, consisting of a mirror and painting, it later became detached and used as a decorative mirror on its own or in a composition with a commode or chest.

This example hangs in my music room. I purchased it from a friend several years ago who brought it back from France.

The painting on board depicts a romantic couple with soft but striking colors. It retains its applied moldings, gold gilding and original glass. It is very heavy and the back consists of planked wood.

The overmantel trumeau that hangs in my master bedroom below, is a reproduction from Drexel Heritage. It’s common to see trumeau-style mirrors today without pictures or paintings utilizing molded panels instead.

I have seen many great examples in France and I’m always impressed at the variety of antique interpretations. The trumeau continues to be popular due to its statement-making size and also its ability to fit beautifully into contemporary interiors.

I hope everyone is staying warm. I am certainly looking forward to Spring as our wind chill temperatures in KY are falling to 20 below zero tonight with well over a foot of snow still on the ground. Even though we have all four season, this is highly unusual! Brrrrrr…..

Blessings,

Kim

P.S. Don’t forget to click on the top tab to learn more about the upcoming 2015 Summer Shopping Tour to France.

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I specialize in French Country antiques & interiors at Thoroughbred Antique Gallery in Lexington, KY where you can find my decorative French antiques for the home and garden. I'm a Francophile in constant pursuit of beautiful things for the home.These are my notes about antique furniture, décor, and travel. Maybe something I share will give you some French Country inspiration. Click on the About tab under the header to learn more. Merci!